Lifehacks

Do mason bee houses work?

Do mason bee houses work?

Unlike garden-variety honeybees, mason bees are nonsocial creatures that nest in holes rather than in a hive with a queen. Mason bees work alone, but like to nest in groups when possible; there is no cooperation concerning the nest’s construction or the rearing of the brood, and therefore, no aggression issues!

When should you put out mason bee boxes?

Put your house out when the blossoms are starting to swell and the chance of frost is low. For Blue Orchard Mason Bees and other spring time bees this is when the temperature exceeds 50*consistently. Bees will emerge 1-14 days after warming up.

Where should a mason bee hotel be placed?

The optimal location to hang your mason bee house is 6 to 7 feet off the ground, preferably under an eave of your house, garage, shed or some other shelter.

What do you do with a mason bee house in the winter?

Mason bees over winter as pupae….Follow these eight simple steps to give your mason bees the best chance at a thriving population.

  1. Step 1: Remove the tubes.
  2. Step 2: Remove the cocoons.
  3. Step 3: Sorting.
  4. Step 4: Bath.
  5. Step 5: Selecting.
  6. Step 6: Refrigerate your cocoons.
  7. Step 7: Wait.
  8. Step 8: Release your bees.

What size holes do mason bees need?

¼ to 3/8 inch
The nesting holes for mason bees should be ¼ to 3/8 inch in diameter and at least 3 inches, preferably 6 inches, deep. The hole should be open only on the entry end. Mason bees prefer wood (not pressure- treated or cedar) in which to nest but will use other materials.

Do mason bee houses attract wasps?

Bees that will be attracted to your bee house include: mason bee (blue orchard bee), wool carder bee, leaf cutter bee and potter wasps. None of your new residents will sting you. All are docile non-aggressive bees.

How do you take care of a mason bee house?

Feel free to add a damp paper towel for moisture every few weeks so the cocoons don’t dry out. The ideal environment is 30-40° F at 60-70% humidity. Once spring arrives, place your cocoons in some fresh nesting tubes in your mason bee house. Congrats, you’ve done it!

Where is the best place to put a bee box?

No direct wind– Hives should be placed in an area with a wind break such as a fence, shrubbery, trees or bushes. This is especially true in climates where temperatures drop below freezing. Northern facing sides of the hive should especially be protected in the winter in the northern United States.